AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  F-4B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Charles E. Southwick for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 14 May 1967, as a Pilot of jet aircraft, serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fourteen, embarked in USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63), during a strike against the strategic Thanh Hoa Bridge in North Vietnam. As the leader of a three-plane, flak-suppression element during an air-wing, coordinated strike against the heavily defended bridge, Commander (then Lieutenant Commander) Southwick demonstrated exceptional professionalism and courage in leading his element in a highly successful attack against the target area. With precise timing, he preceded the strike elements and personally engaged an active, firing anti-aircraft artillery site. By his daring and heroic actions, the enemy defenses were effectively suppressed, permitting the strike group to complete its attack and retire without receiving battle damage. Commander Southwick's performance and superb dedication in the face of intense enemy opposition were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.